Tanote Bay

Tanote Bay sits on the east coast of Koh Tao, roughly in the middle of the island’s quieter shoreline. The beach is compact — perhaps 150 metres of sand — backed by granite boulders and steep forested hills. Because it faces east, you get sunrise directly over the bay, which is one concrete reason to stay the night at one of the small resorts tucked into the treeline rather than making a day trip.

The reef starts within a few steps of the waterline. Depth near shore is only one to two metres, dropping to four to six metres in the centre of the bay, which means good snorkelling without swimming far out. Pink skunk clownfish in anemones, parrotfish, moray eels, and occasional blacktip reef sharks in the deeper water are regularly reported. Snorkel rental is available on the beach for around 200 THB.

The bay’s landmark is a large granite boulder jutting out of the water roughly 30 metres from shore. A rope ladder lets you climb it; the jump is around five to seven metres into deep water below. The descent is by jumping — there is no ladder down — so commit before you climb. Dive tour operators also run guided dives here, accessible year-round with visibility of 20 metres or more in good conditions.

Insider Tip: Come early morning on a weekday. By midday the jump rock draws a crowd and the minimal shade on the beach becomes a real issue — there are almost no trees close to the sand. Bring your own sunscreen and, if you feel the heat, retreat to the restaurant at the top of the path.

Watch out: The access road is steep and narrow — inexperienced motorbike riders should take a songthaew or taxi rather than attempt it on two wheels. Box jellyfish are occasionally spotted around Koh Tao; vinegar bottles are kept on the beach, but check with locals before swimming after rain or in calm flat conditions when jellyfish tend to come inshore.

If you want beach bars, dive-shop density, and a longer stretch of sand, Sairee Beach on the island’s west coast is the busier alternative — Tanote is the quieter, snorkel-and-jump-rock option on the east side.